The weather is cooler and it will soon be prime leaf-peeping time! There’s no better time to get outside for a family hike! While I do love a hike with scenic river views or waterfalls, not all of these types of hikes are kid-friendly. They can often be steep and lengthy to get to those scenic views. Below are five Hudson Valley family-friendly loop hikes. Each of these hikes is around a pond or lake and also 1.5 miles or less . You will enjoy scenic water views and colorful fall foliage! Since all of these hikes are near bodies of water, you may want to pack bug spray. Please note, these are popular family hiking destinations. If you want to avoid the crowds, arrive early!
Little Stony Point (Putnam County) Little Stony Point is part of Hudson Highlands State Park in Cold Spring. This park has over 70 miles of trails. However, Little Stony Point is an easy one-mile loop trail. While it doesn’t entirely loop around a body of water, it hugs the Hudson River for 2/3 of the trail. If up for it, hike up to the cliffs for some spectacular scenic views! Free parking.
Pelton Pond – (Putnam County) Pelton Pond is part of Fahnestock State Park. This trail is conveniently located off the Taconic Parkway in Putnam Valley. While Fahnestock State Park consists of over 14,000 acres, Pelton Pond is a short, family-friendly hike. The 1.5 mile Yellow trail loops around Pelton Pond. The pond is home to beavers, which you may see on your hike. There are picnic tables near the pavilion if you want to bring lunch or a snack. Free parking.
Rockefeller State Park – (Westchester County) Rockefeller State Park is home to over 20 hiking trails. Brothers’ Path is the 1.1 mile loop that takes you around the 22-acre Swan Lake. Stop in the Preserve Gallery to view rotating art exhibits. There is a $6 parking fee.
Teatown Lake Reservation – (Westchester County) Teatown is a 1,000-acre nature preserve located in Ossining. Teatown maintains 14 hiking trails. The 1.5 mile Lakeside Loop takes you around Teatown Lake. There is a $5 non-member parking fee.
Bear Mountain State Park – (Rockland County/Orange County) There are over 10 hiking trails at Bear Mountain State Park. Hessian Lake is a 1.4 mile paved loop. While visiting the park you can visit the Trailside Museum and Zoo and take a ride on the Merry-Go-Round. There is a $10 parking fee. Parking is free for Empire (New York State Parks) Pass holders.
